If you’re struggling with weight management, you may have heard how medications like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) are transforming lives. However, due to serious barriers caused by shortages and high costs of the brand-name medications, people are now turning to compounded semaglutide.
Compounded semaglutide contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic and Wegovy and can be a more affordable alternative to brand-name semaglutide.
If you’re considering getting compounded semaglutide, this article will provide all the information you need about this medication, including what it is and where to get it.
What Is Compounded Semaglutide?
Compounded semaglutide is a custom-made medication prepared by a compounding pharmacy. It contains the same active ingredient, semaglutide, present in three FDA-approved drugs: Rybelsus, Wegovy, and Ozempic. The difference is that compounded semaglutide is made by compounding pharmacies rather than manufacturers.
The compounding pharmacies must get the active ingredient, semaglutide, from FDA-registered companies. They can then make compounded semaglutide by mixing, combining, or modifying substances that meet a specific patient’s needs based on a prescription from a medical professional.
The person compounding the medication could be a doctor, a licensed pharmacist, or someone working under a qualified pharmacist’s supervision.
According to the FDA, a pharmacist may compound medication for a patient who cannot take the FDA-approved form due to a medication allergy or difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules and needs a drug in a liquid dosage form.
When an FDA-approved medication is not medically suitable for treating a patient, healthcare providers in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities may prescribe compounded medications.
Drugs can also be compounded if there is a shortage. The FDA keeps an updated list of medications currently in short supply.
The FDA has listed Wegovy and Ozempic as drugs in shortage since May 2023, which means they can be compounded.
Does Compounded Semaglutide Work?
Compounded semaglutide has never been evaluated in clinical studies, so we cannot state with certainty if it works. However, compounded semaglutide contains the same active ingredient as FDA-approved medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, which can be effective for weight loss and blood sugar management.
Studies on Ozempic and Wegovy have shown that semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss in people with and without type 2 diabetes. One study on Wegovy found that people lost an average of about 15% of their body weight in under 16 months while also receiving lifestyle coaching. 30% of participants lost 20% of their body weight, equal to the results after weight loss surgery.
Semaglutide has also shown cardiovascular benefits because of its effects on weight loss. A Novo Nordisk-sponsored study found a 20% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events among people with overweight or obesity and had preexisting cardiovascular disease.
Is Compounded Semaglutide the Same as Name Brands Like Ozempic and Wegovy?
While compounded semaglutide and brands like Wegovy and Ozempic contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide, they are not the same. There are key differences in regulation, ingredients, formulation, and cost.
Wegovy and Ozempic use semaglutide base as the active ingredient. Some compounded semaglutide formulations, like those provided by NP2GO, use the same active component as Wegovy and Ozempic. Some forms may use semaglutide salts, which are different ingredients.
Compounded semaglutide may include additional ingredients like L-carnitine, vitamin B-12, and vitamin B-6.
Wegovy and Ozempic are available as injectable pens. Each pen is for single use only. So, you will use one pen in a week. For every injection, you must attach a fresh needle. Injectable compounded semaglutide is packaged in small glass vials. For every injection, you will draw up your dose using a syringe.
Another difference between compounded semaglutide and brand names Wegovy and Ozempic is the cost and insurance coverage. Brand-name Ozempic and Wegovy are expensive, costing around $1,000-$1,500 monthly. Compounded semaglutide is more affordable, depending on where your prescription is filled.
Brand name semaglutide may be covered by insurance, but coverage may vary by health insurance plan. However, based on your plan, it may require prior authorization. Since compounded semaglutide is not an FDA-approved medication, insurance does not cover it. So, you will need to pay out-of-pocket, which, as stated above, is more affordable.
While Wegovy and Ozempic are FDA-approved and compounded semaglutide is not, this doesn’t mean that the compounded drug is unsafe. Your compounded semaglutide should be safe if it is made by a state-licensed compounding pharmacy that complies with state and FDA regulations. NP2GO only works with pharmacies that undergo frequent inspections and adhere to the FDA’s strictest safety and quality requirements.
Why Use Compounded Semaglutide?
You may use compounded semaglutide if you need a specific dosage or formulation of the medication that is not readily available through FDA-approved medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Here are a few reasons why you may consider using compounded versions:
- Availability during shortages: Due to high demand, brand-name semaglutide medications have faced shortages, and the FDA included the medication on its drug shortage list. Compounded versions may offer a temporary solution when the FDA-approved options are unavailable.
- Cost saving: Ozempic and Wegovy can be expensive without insurance coverage. Some patients turn to compounded semaglutide as a more affordable option. However, pricing and quality can vary by pharmacy.
- Customized formulations: Compounding pharmacies can tailor doses to your specific needs or include additional ingredients, such as vitamin B12, which may help with energy levels or nausea relief.
- Access for off-label use: Your healthcare provider may prescribe compounded semaglutide for weight loss even if you don’t meet the strict criteria for FDA-approved versions.
- Allergies: If you’re allergic to an inactive ingredient in a commercially available medication, a compounded medication can be made without it.
Is Compounded Semaglutide Safe?
We are not certain if compounded semaglutide is safe or not. Compounded medications aren’t regulated like standard prescription drugs, and the FDA does not evaluate their safety, quality, or effectiveness. However, this doesn’t mean they are unsafe or ineffective. When compounded semaglutide is prepared by a state-licensed pharmacy that follows strict regulatory guidelines, it can be a safe option for patients.
While the FDA controls medication manufacturers, compounding pharmacies are overseen by state boards of pharmacy. States may differ in the level of control and compounding laws. As a result, not all compounding pharmacies adhere to the same quality standards. However, some pharmacies might have accreditation, which means they have been recognized to fulfill a particular set of requirements.
How Much Does Compounded Semaglutide Cost?
At NP2GO, we offer affordable pricing for compounded semaglutide with a flexible month-to-month membership. Our pricing is as follows:
- Month 1 (0.25 mg): $199/month
- Month 2 (0.5 mg): $199/month
- Month 3 (1 mg): $199/month
- Month 4 (1.7 mg): $299/month
- Month 5 (2.5 mg): $299/month
What’s included?
- Shipping & syringes
- No insurance required
- Flexible provider check-ins
- Unlimited nurse call/text
- Cancel anytime
What Dosages and Forms Are Offered for Compounded Semaglutide?
Compounded semaglutide is available as an injectable medication. At NP2GO, we follow a gradual dose-increase schedule to help your body adjust and minimize potential side effects like nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort. A common dose progression for weight loss includes:
- Weeks 1-4: 0.25 mg once a week
- Weeks 5-8: 0.5 mg once a week
- Weeks 9-12: 1 mg once a week
- Weeks 13-16: 1.7 mg once a week
- Week 17 and onward: 2.5 mg once a week
How to Get Compounded Semaglutide Online
At NP2GO, getting compounded semaglutide online is easier by following simple steps. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Online consultation
Schedule a virtual consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. During this session, we’ll assess your medical history, discuss your weight loss goals, and determine if compounded semaglutide is the right choice for you.
Step 2: Prescription
If semaglutide is appropriate for your needs, our provider will issue a prescription and enroll you in our flexible month-to-month membership plan.
Step 3: Medication delivery
We coordinate with our trusted, state-licensed compounding pharmacy to prepare your medication. Your semaglutide will be shipped directly to your doorstep with necessary supplies like syringes.
Step 4: Ongoing support and monitoring
To ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the treatment, we require monthly follow-up consultations. These sessions allow us to monitor your progress, adjust dosages as needed, and address any questions or concerns you may have.
Follow-up consultations are scheduled every three months for those who prefer a pay-as-you-go arrangement.
What Are the Side Effects of Compounded Semaglutide?
Like FDA-approved semaglutide (Wegovy and Ozempic), compounded semaglutide may cause side effects. These can range from mild to severe and occur as your body adjusts to the medication.
Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Decreased appetite
Less common but serious side effects may include:
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder issues
- Kidney problems
- Thyroid tumors
- Severe allergic reactions
Most side effects, especially nausea and digestive issues, tend to improve over time as your body gets used to the medication. To minimize discomfort, your healthcare provider will start you on a lower dose and gradually increase it. Consult your healthcare provider immediately if you experience persistent or severe side effects.
FAQ About How to Get Compounded Semaglutide
Do I need a prescription to get compounded semaglutide?
Yes, you must have a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to get compounded semaglutide. At NP2GO, we offer virtual consultations where our providers assess your medical history and weight loss goals before prescribing the medication.
Can I choose my pharmacy for compounded semaglutide?
NP2GO works with a trusted, state-licensed compounding pharmacy to ensure consistent quality, safety, and availability. Using our pre-selected pharmacy, we help maintain the highest standards for your medication and ensure you receive reliable and effective compounded semaglutide without supply disruptions.
How long does it take to receive my medication?
Once your prescription is approved, your medication is prepared and shipped to your home in 7-10 days.
Does insurance cover compounded semaglutide?
Most insurance plans do not cover compounded medications since they are not FDA-approved. However, NP2GO offers transparent pricing and flexible payment options, including health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
Get Compounded Semaglutide with NP2GO
Compounded semaglutide can be a more accessible and cost-effective alternative to brand-name weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. It contains the same active ingredient but is not FDA-approved.
At NP2GO, we work with U.S. licensed healthcare providers and trusted compounding pharmacies to offer high-quality compounded medications. Our compounded semaglutide is carefully formulated and available in injectable form for effective weight loss support.
We serve over 38 states, including Oklahoma, Texas, Florida, Washington, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, and more.
We’re expanding to more locations soon! If you’re considering compounded semaglutide, book an appointment with us to start your health and weight loss journey.